2 'Probable' Heat Deaths In Greenfield And Milwaukee: Medical Examiner

MILWAUKEE, WI — Two people have likely died from this week's heat wave, according to the Milwaukee County Medical Examiner's Office said. A heat index of around 100 degrees lingered in much of southeastern Wisconsin on Tuesday and Wednesday.

The deaths of a 39-year-old woman in Milwaukee and an 89-year-old man in Greenfield are being investigated, the medical examiner's office said Wednesday in a Twitter post. Autopsies are scheduled for Thursday, the office said, calling both "probable" heat deaths.

The medical examiner said the man had a body temperature of 94 degrees when he was found in his backyard Wednesday morning, The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported. The woman was found Tuesday night, the report said.

Heat-related illnesses are largely preventable, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Regardless, around 618 people die each year in the United States from extreme heat, according to the federal agency's website.

Older adults, very young people, and people with mental illness or chronic disease are most at risk for heat illness, but anyone can be affected.

Here is how the CDC says you can prevent heat illness during hot days:

• Stay hydrated. No matter how active you are, drink fluids. Don't wait until you are thirsty.
• Replace salt and minerals. Sweat can remove salt from your body — a sports drink can replace it.
• Make sure your pets are hydrated. Provide them plenty of fresh water in a shady spot.
• Dress right. Wear lightweight, light-colored and loose-fitting clothing.
• Stay inside. If your home doesn't have air-conditioning, go to a mall or a library. Even a few hours in colder air can help your body, the CDC says.
• Be careful when scheduling outdoor activities. Limit time outside to when it's coolest in the morning and evening. Rest frequently in shady areas. Pace yourself when exercising in the heat.
• Do not leave kids in cars. Cars can heat up to dangerous temperatures quickly, even with a window open. People left in cars are at risk of heat stroke or death.

Here are some tips for recognizing the signs of heat-illness from Milwaukee County:

• Be aware of heat-related illness symptoms.
  • Heat exhaustion symptoms include heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting or fainting.
  • Heat stroke symptoms include extremely high body temperature, hot and dry skin (no sweating), rapid pulse, throbbing headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, or unconsciousness.